With a little over a week to go before the big Christmas Holiday, I am sure there are a few people left on your list that would love something that doesn't come in a sweater box. Having more than just the shopping mall to choose from this holiday season, may I suggest taking the time to do a little spending in one of our several cultural districts this city has to offer? Broad Ripple being the hot spot for some very unique gifts; one can find everything from reindeer shaped dog treats at the Three Dog Bakery on Broad Ripple Avenue, to original fine art at the Basile Studio Shop found just inside the doors at the Indianapolis Art Center.

Fountain Square has been on a comeback and shouldn't be passed up as a fun spot to do a little bit of gift buying this season. Thinking outside the box, why not stop by the White Rabbit Cabaret to give your loved one a night out of music and dance entertainment. If you are looking for something a little more crafty, save the date for the Handmade Promenade. December 18th, from 5 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. at Pure Eatery inside the Murphy Building (1043 Virginia Avenue). This night will feature more than 15 crafters and their handmade goods. Oh, and not to leave out a chance to meet Santa and have photos taken with the big guy.

Heading a bit south down to Mass Ave, the District has gourmet chocolates at Best Chocolate in Town, original varieties of wine at the Mass Ave Wine Shoppe and if you are looking for that child on your list the Mass Ave Toy Shop has wonderfully unique toys that you won't find at the massive toy stores we normally think of when someone says holiday shopping for the kids. Speaking of the Mass Ave Toy Shop, I had an opportunity this year to photograph a special breakfast with Santa this month at the Rathskellar on Michigan Avenue that was put together by the YMCA. The Mass Ave Toy Shop was generous in donating toys for the event that benefitted families that found themselves spending the holidays in our local shelters. While money is always tight, it's one of those events that makes me and my family really appreciate what we are thankful for this holiday season. Being able to take some fun photos of these children visiting with Santa made me smile as they received their photo keepsake to take with them as they headed back out in to the cold.

I hope this holiday season everyone gets a chance to stop for a moment, put down their long list that they are viciously shopping for, and think about someone less fortunate. And if you are able to send some cheer, whether it's donating to Toys for Tots or the children that will be spending their holiday at Riley Hospital, it's important to remember that the true meaning of the holidays are not the Black Friday sales at Wal-Mart.